Croydon College

Excellent problem-solving skills

Tom Ward, 19, is working towards a Level 2 apprenticeship in plumbing and heating at Croydon College

Tom started studying his Level 2 apprenticeship in plumbing and heating in 2015 after having tried out other study options, including childcare, and deciding to change career path. He was advised to follow an apprenticeship as it would allow him to earn while he learned and he found a job working for Axis Europe as an apprentice on one of their maintenance teams.

Tom says: “I love plumbing and an apprenticeship suits me much better than being based in a classroom as I found I learn more by getting on and doing a job. In the first year of my apprenticeship

I have learnt many excellent and useful skills, particularly problem solving, and I have also improved my English and maths during my time in college.

“Doing an apprenticeship lets you learn directly from someone who has been doing the job for many years and earn while you do it. I think more people should do apprenticeships so they can learn on the job from experienced professionals like the team at Axis. I have been supported throughout by the team at Croydon College both onsite and in college. My tutor and assessor were able to give me all the help I needed to be successful.”

After completing his apprenticeship Tom plans to broaden his skills to cover gas and possibly electrical as well as plumbing and to build up his experience before setting up his own company in the future.